The Radiation Control Bureau safeguards the health and safety of New Mexico’s residents by regulating the use of ionizing radiation to protect workers, the public, and the environment. Through oversight of radioactive materials and medical imaging practices, we ensure these technologies are used safely and responsibly, benefiting communities while minimizing risks. Our mission is rooted in promoting public health and advancing the well-being of all New Mexicans.<\/p>\n\n\n
Dear Licensee and Registrant:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This letter is in response to a request to confirm that the Radiation Control Bureau (RCB) of the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) is a health oversight agency as defined under the federal regulations (45 C.F.R. Part 164) of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The NMED falls within the definition of a health oversight agency for the purposes of Subpart E of 45 C.F.R. \u00a7 164 on the privacy of individually identifiable health information because the NMED is a public agency that is authorized by law to oversee a government program concerning the health and environmental aspects of the use, management, storage and disposal of radioactive material and the operation of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation emitting equipment for which health information is necessary to determine eligibility and compliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A health oversight agency is authorized to receive health information pursuant to 45 C.F.R. \u00a7 164.512(d)(1):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A covered entity may disclose protected health information to a health oversight agency for oversight activities authorized by law, including audits; civil, administrative, or criminal investigations; inspections; licensure or disciplinary actions; civil, administrative, or criminal proceedings or actions; or other activities necessary for appropriate oversight of . . . [e]ntities subject to government regulatory programs for which health information is necessary for determining compliance with program standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In 45 C.F.R. \u00a7 164.501, a health oversight agency is defined as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
an agency or authority of the United States, a State, a territory, a political subdivision of a State or territory, or an Indian tribe, or a person or entity acting under a grant of authority from or contract with such public agency, including the employees or agents of such public agency or its contractors or persons or entities to whom it has granted authority, that is authorized by law to oversee the health care system (whether public or private) or government programs in which health information is necessary to determine eligibility or compliance, or to enforce civil rights laws for which health information is relevant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The NMED is a cabinet department of the state of New Mexico created pursuant to the Department of Environment Act, Sections 9-7A-1 through 12 NMSA 1978. The RCB exists within the NMED. The employees of a public agency are included in the definition of a health oversight agency. The ordinary meaning of \u201cstate agency\u201d includes the departments in the executive branch of state government, and any division, board, bureau or other instrumentality within or created by such department.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Environmental Improvement Act, Chapter 74, Article 1 NMSA 1978, the New Mexico Radiation Protection Act, Chapter 74, Article 3 NMSA 1978, the Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Health and Safety Act, Sections 61-14E-3 through 12 NMSA 1978 and regulations adopted pursuant to those acts and found in Title 20, Chapter 3 NMAC provide the authority for the NMED to oversee the health and environmental aspects of the use, management, storage and disposal of radioactive material and the operation of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation emitting equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The NMED needs certain health information to determine eligibility and\/or compliance for: licenses to manufacture, produce, receive, possess, use, own, transfer or acquire radioactive material; the registration of radiation machines and persons who install or service radiation machines; safety standards for receiving, possessing, using, transferring or disposing of sources of radiation; and safety standards to protect public health and safety from the effects of ionizing radiation. See <\/em>Title 20, Chapter 3 NMAC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div> Did you know radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S.? This invisible, odorless gas could be sneaking into your home right now! But don\u2019t worry\u2014our Indoor Radon Program<\/strong><\/a> is here to help you take control and breathe easy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To understand more about radon, visit our Indoor Radon Frequently Asked Questions page<\/a>. The New Mexico Indoor Radon Program now has FREE radon test kits available for residents. Testing your home is easy, affordable (free!), and one of the best steps you can take to protect your family\u2019s health. Mammography in New Mexico<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Mammography saves lives by detecting breast cancer early and ensuring high-quality imaging is our top priority. In New Mexico, we work under the guidance of the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA)<\/strong> and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)<\/strong> to ensure every facility meets rigorous standards for safety and accuracy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Why MQSA and FDA Compliance Matters:<\/strong> Protect Your Patients\u2014Stay Compliant!<\/strong> Are you looking for Notice To Employees, Click Here to download.\u00a0\u201cClick Here\u201d<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div> Welcome, Radiologic Technologists! MIRTP Application Portal<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Need a little more guidance? No problem! Check out our Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapy Program page<\/a> and our Frequently Asked Question page<\/a> for all the details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Are you looking for Notice To Employees, Click Here to download.\u00a0\u201cClick Here\u201d<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div> NORM refers to radioactive materials naturally present in the environment, often concentrated through industrial processes like mining, oil and gas production, or water treatment. Understanding and managing NORM ensures safety and compliance while minimizing environmental impact. Learn More About NORM<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Managing Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM)<\/strong> is essential to protecting public health, the environment, and workers handling these materials. Our NORM Program<\/strong> offers guidance, regulation, and support for industries that encounter NORM, ensuring safe practices and compliance with state requirements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n What We Provide:<\/strong> Are you looking for Notice To Employees, Click Here to download.\u00a0\u201cClick Here\u201d<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div> Our Radioactive Materials Licensing Program<\/strong> ensures the safe use, storage, transfer and disposal of radioactive materials in New Mexico. Whether you\u2019re applying for a new license or managing an existing one, we provide clear guidance to help you meet regulatory requirements and protect public health. Learn more about our licensing requirements<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How We Can Help:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Why Licensing Matters:<\/strong> Fees For FY25 and FY26<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Fee Reductions for Small Entities<\/strong>: Are you looking for Notice To Employees, Click Here to download.\u00a0\u201cClick Here\u201d<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div> Are you a licensed company looking to temporarily operate in New Mexico? Our Radioactive Materials Reciprocity Program<\/strong> allows companies with valid radioactive materials licenses from other states to conduct business here for up to 180 days per year<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Why Reciprocity?<\/strong> How It Works<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Established in 2007, our Radiological and Chemical Advocacy Office<\/strong> is the only one of its kind in the nation<\/strong>. We specialize in assisting nuclear workers in New Mexico who have become ill due to occupational exposures while working for Department of Energy (DOE) contractors, subcontractors, or in the uranium mining industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How We Help:<\/strong> Advocacy and Support:<\/strong> Eligible Facilities and Locations in New Mexico:<\/strong> Learn How to Apply for Benefits<\/a> and visit our Frequently Asked Questions Page<\/a>. Your health and well-being matter. Contact us today to explore your eligibility and let us assist you in the path toward the compensation and care you deserve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div> Are you a professional in the radiological field looking to provide services in New Mexico? Our Radiological Services Program<\/a> streamlines the process for individuals and companies to become approved vendors for critical radiological services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What We Offer:<\/strong> Vendor Guidance<\/a> \u2013 Access comprehensive resources to ensure compliance with state regulations and standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Why Register?<\/strong> Ready to Apply?<\/strong> If you own or operate X-ray machines in New Mexico, our X-ray Machine Registration Program<\/a><\/strong> ensures compliance with state regulations to protect public health and safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What You Need:<\/strong> Why Register?<\/strong> All forms, shielding designs and questions should be directed to the following email: RCB.xraymachines@env.nm.gov<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n \ud83d\udc49 For more detailed information and guidance on registration requirements, visit our X-ray Registration Guidance <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Are you looking for Notice To Employees, Click Here to download.\u00a0\u201cClick Here\u201d<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n Additional Links:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Radiation Control Bureau safeguards the health and safety of New Mexico’s residents by regulating the use of ionizing radiation to protect workers, the public, and the environment. Through oversight of radioactive materials and medical imaging practices, we ensure these technologies are used safely and responsibly, benefiting communities while minimizing risks. Our mission is rooted […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-4","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.env.nm.gov\/rcb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.env.nm.gov\/rcb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.env.nm.gov\/rcb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.env.nm.gov\/rcb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.env.nm.gov\/rcb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4"}],"version-history":[{"count":37,"href":"https:\/\/www.env.nm.gov\/rcb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":669,"href":"https:\/\/www.env.nm.gov\/rcb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4\/revisions\/669"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.env.nm.gov\/rcb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}Indoor Radon Program: Protect Your Home and Family<\/h2><\/div>
Radon doesn\u2019t knock before entering, but you can kick it out! Testing your home is the first step. Take action today – Request a free radon test kit today and breathe easier knowing your home is safer. Your health is worth it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>Mammography in New Mexico: Ensuring Safe and Accurate Screening for All<\/h2><\/div>
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The MQSA<\/strong> was established to ensure that mammography services across the country meet consistent quality standards. Working closely with the FDA<\/strong>, we monitor facilities to guarantee accurate results and safe practices for every patient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Facilities must adhere to MQSA standards to continue operating in New Mexico. Visit our Mammography Program Page<\/a> to access compliance checklists, reporting tools, and training opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\nMedical Imaging & Radiation Therapy Program for Radiologic Technologists<\/h2><\/div>
You’ve made it to the right place. Whether you\u2019re here to register for the first time or to renew your license, we\u2019ve got you covered. (No lead apron required.)<\/p>\n\n\n\nNORM Program: Safe Management of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials <\/h2><\/div>
\ud83d\udc49 Apply for a NORM License<\/a> – Begin your application to manage, store, or dispose of NORM in New Mexico.
\ud83d\udc49 Visit our NORM Page<\/a> for a deeper dive into what NORM is, where it\u2019s found, and why proper management is critical.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRadioactive Material (Licensing) Program: Legally Possess Radioactive Materials<\/h2><\/div>
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Proper licensing ensures the safe and lawful use of radioactive materials, protecting workers, the public, and the environment. Our program adheres to state and federal regulations, offering the tools and support you need to stay compliant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are you a smaller company? You may qualify for reduced licensing fees under our Small Entity Program<\/strong>. We understand that one size doesn\u2019t fit all, so we offer a scaled fee structure to help smaller organizations comply with regulations without financial strain. Check your eligibility for Small Entity Fees<\/a>.
See 20.3.16.12 SMALL ENTITIES AND ANNUAL FEES:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nRAM (Reciprocity) Program: Work in New Mexico with Ease and Compliance<\/strong><\/h2><\/div>
This program ensures safe and regulated use of radioactive materials while offering flexibility for companies working across state lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Radiological And Chemical Advocacy Office: Get the Help You Deserve<\/strong><\/h2><\/div>
Our office has supported thousands of workers in applying for benefits under the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Act (EEOICP)<\/strong>. Eligible workers may receive compensation and\/or medical benefits for illnesses such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
We are committed to helping claimants navigate the process, providing exceptional customer service, and working to resolve any challenges. We also maintain regular communication with key organizations, including the DOE, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, to advocate for our clients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you worked at any of the following sites and believe your illness is related to occupational exposure, you may qualify for benefits:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Radiological Services: Become a Trusted Radiological Service Provider in New Mexico<\/strong><\/h2><\/div>
Vendor Application<\/a> \u2013 Apply to become a registered provider for services such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Becoming an approved vendor ensures you meet New Mexico\u2019s regulatory standards and are eligible to provide essential radiological services to medical, industrial, and research facilities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Complete your Vendor Application<\/a> today and join the network of trusted service providers keeping New Mexico safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>X-ray Machine Registration Program: Stay Compliant<\/strong><\/h2><\/div>
\ud83d\udc49 New Registration Form<\/a>. Register your X-ray machine for the first time.
\ud83d\udc49 Renewal Form<\/a>. Keep your registration up to date.
\ud83d\udc49 Amendment Form<\/a>. Make changes to your existing registration, such as equipment updates or location changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
State law requires all X-ray machines to be registered to maintain accountability and ensure safe operation. Our streamlined process makes it easy to stay compliant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n